Leishmaniasis in Spanish Water Dogs: Causes, Signs & Prevention
The Spanish Water Dog is generally a healthy, robust breed, but like all dogs, it can suffer from hereditary and acquired health conditions. One significant disease to be aware of is leishmaniasis. This condition is caused by a parasite not naturally found in the UK but prevalent in Southern Europe, notably Spain, where the breed originates. With increasing travel and pet relocation abroad, it is important for owners to understand how leishmaniasis is transmitted, recognise the signs, and take responsible precautions to protect their dogs.
Understanding Leishmaniasis: Causes and Transmission
Leishmaniasis is caused by the protozoan parasite Leishmania infantum, spread primarily through the bite of infected female sandflies, especially Phlebotomus perniciosus, common in Spain and other Mediterranean countries. It can affect a dog’s skin (cutaneous form) or internal organs (visceral form), with symptoms sometimes taking months or years to emerge after infection.
In addition to vector transmission by sandflies, leishmaniasis can also be passed vertically from mother to puppy, venereally during mating, by blood transfusion, or potentially through direct dog-to-dog contact via bites or wounds, although these routes are less common.
Recognising the Signs of Leishmaniasis
Dogs infected with leishmaniasis may show a range of signs:
- Hair loss and skin ulcerations or lesions, especially around the eyes and ears
- Enlarged lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy)
- Eye inflammation such as conjunctivitis and uveitis
- Enlarged spleen (splenomegaly)
- Weight loss and poor body condition
- Fever and lethargy
Because the parasite can spread to internal organs, including kidneys, untreated leishmaniasis can lead to serious complications like renal failure and can be fatal.
How Vets Diagnose Leishmaniasis
A vet will take a detailed history including any travel to endemic countries. Diagnosis involves a combination of clinical examination and laboratory tests:
- Cytology or tissue biopsy samples to identify parasite presence
- Serological tests to detect antibodies, often elevated in infected dogs
- Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing to detect parasite DNA
- Quantitative methods to assess the parasite load in the dog’s system
Vaccinating Your Spanish Water Dog
Thankfully, there is a vaccine available that reduces the risk of infection by enhancing the dog’s immune response to the parasite. The course requires initial injections spaced three weeks apart followed by annual boosters. While the vaccine significantly lowers the risk, it does not offer complete protection, so additional preventative measures remain vital.
Precautions for UK Owners and Travellers
If planning to travel abroad with a Spanish Water Dog to countries known to have sandflies (Southern Europe, parts of South America and Asia), owners should take these steps well in advance:
- Ensure your dog is vaccinated for leishmaniasis and up to date.
- Use effective insect repellents and protective collars to reduce sandfly bites.
- Keep your dog indoors or in well-screened areas during dusk and dawn when sandflies are most active.
- Discuss additional preventive options with your vet before travel.
For anyone considering importing a Spanish Water Dog puppy or adult dog from an endemic area, ask the breeder for full health clearances and proof of vaccination against leishmaniasis to support responsible and safe ownership.
Managing Dogs Previously Infected
Dogs that have had leishmaniasis require lifelong monitoring. Annual blood tests help assess antibody levels and kidney function, allowing early intervention should the disease reactivate or progress. Working closely with your veterinary team is critical to maintain your dog’s quality of life.
Conclusion
Leishmaniasis presents a serious health threat to Spanish Water Dogs, especially in endemic regions and for dogs travelling from or to these areas. Awareness of its causes, signs, and careful preventive steps including vaccination and sandfly avoidance are essential for responsible owners. By taking these proactive measures, you can help ensure your Spanish Water Dog stays healthy and protected against this challenging parasitic disease.
